Health and Safety Investigation into Explosion at Police Station
The HSE was called in after an explosion at the Croydon police station. Police and the HSE had to determine why an explosion occurred. It was determined the incident happened at the firing range located in the basement. The police stated the range had been decommissioned in order to complete a refurbishment project. The range was not supposed to open again until May.
The police have stated no firearms or ammo were in the range. Unfortunately, the incident did lead to a serious condition for the contractor who was taken in by ambulance to Chelmsford. Another two were taken to Croydon University Hospital for smoke inhalation, but have been discharged.
The HSE will conduct health and safety audits to determine what led to the explosion. Witnesses at the scene stated they watched as police and emergency fire fighting crews arrived in front of the Croydon station. There is a definite worry of what could have caused the incident. There has been no statement made as to whether the station was unsafe or if a health and safety breach occurred on part of the construction company. It is simply too early to tell what transpired during the incident and what has caused it. Work on the building will cease until an answer is found and this could mean several more months before the building and the firing range are once again usable. The HSE will conduct a thorough investigation to find the answers.
